NBCUNIVERSAL MERGES ITS DOMESTIC AND INTERNATIONAL DIVISIONS

NBCUniversal is merging its domestic and international divisions, due to the exit of Kevin MacLellan, Chairman of NBCU’s global distribution and international operations, who announced it’s going to leave the company because he is “ready to move on to his next challenge”.

Before he ends his nearly two-decade career with the company, MacLellan will work with Jeff Shell, NBCU’s Chairman of Universal Film and Entertainment, and Cesar Conde, Chairman of NBCUniversal International Group and NBCUniversal Telemundo Enterprises, “to ensure a smooth transition”.

Recently appointed Chairman of NBCUniversal Content Studios, Bonnie Hammer, who was formerly in charge of the company’s forthcoming streaming service Peacock and is now heading up both Universal Television and Universal Content Productions, will oversee the international studio following MacLellan’s exit.

“In light of Kevin’s departure, we have reassessed our international organizational structure,” Shell said in an internal memo announcing the news to staff on Wednesday. “With the rapidly evolving global media landscape, we have decided to more closely align our U.S. and international operations. This will perfectly position us for future growth, as we take advantage of our increased international footprint and the growing number of platforms for our content”.

He added: “Change is never easy, but I’m confident that we have never been better positioned for global growth. The combination of our outstanding international team, with the strength and reach of our new sister company Sky, sets us up for future success in a very competitive marketplace. Thank you for your continued contribution to our business”.